Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer: A Food Difference

Part of the ongoing Politicians Making a Food Difference series

The Hunter College New York City Food Policy Center is excited to recognize the politicians who are working to make NYC a model for smart, fair food policy. This week we honor the work of Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer.

Name: Gale Brewer [D-NY]

Political title: Manhattan Borough President

Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts

Educational Bio: Bennington College, Columbia University, Harvard University John F Kennedy School of Government

What she’s done: In partnership with several members of the New York City Council, launched the Fresh Food for Seniors Program, which provides regionally grown, seasonal vegetables and fruits at a discounted price throughout the summer and fall;issued a survey of Manhattan’s supermarkets and grocers called, Manhattan Supermarkets: How to Keep them Alive, with policy recommendations to stem the tide of supermarket closures, as well as the Age-Friendly Supermarket Guide, a census of senior-friendly features at 229 Manhattan supermarkets (including wheelchair accessibility, restroom availability, delivery costs, and any available senior discounts).

Recent food-related policies she’s supported: New York City’s Summer Meals program providing free, nutritious meals to children at public schools and recreation centers throughout the city; local food sourcing; NYC organics collection program/composting; urban agriculture.